Another month, another place to see – this time i was flying together with my best friend to Morocco. Our first stop was Agadir a beautiful town at the seaside of Morocco. Aftwards we were visiting the capital city of Morocco: Marrakech.
But what can you expect in Morocoo?
Language: In Morocco you will hear mostly Arabic, Berber and French. English is common in touristic places as well but in general it can be useful to learn some french words. Arabic could be useful too but i guess choosing french is the easier way.
Currency: Morocco uses MAD – Moroccan Dirham. For one euro you will receive around ten Dirham. Better always have some cash with you, you can not pay everywhere with creditcard.
Climate: Morocco is warm all year. While in the beginning of the year you have pleasurable temperatures around 20 degrees, sommer can be very hot, depending on where you stay 30 to 40 degrees. But throughout the year cold nights will remain constantly. So better have some warm jackets in your suitcase.
Clothing: Let’s stick with the clothes. Morocco is a muslim country so your dress code as a girl should be: “The more, the better.” Tourists, especially women, feel uncomfortable walking around with their thighs, shoulders or midriff uncovered. It will attract attention being dressed like this that you will get enough of anyway. One time I wore a dress that wasn’t covering my knees completly and I felt really uncomfortable, because all women looked at me disapprovingly.
In comparison to that it is way easier for the men. People are not looking at you. This should not sound hard but I do not think you want to be observed by moroccan men. My only advice is to forgo tank tops.
Traffic: The road conditions differ significantly from those in Germany. Traffic regulations? I think i barley saw a traffic light. For those who have already been in Thailand: The traffic there is similar to Morocco. No one has any idea what “rules” mean.
Take always care when you are crossing the streets. Crosswalks definitely do not have the same meaning than in Germany. Furthermore it is kinda usual seeing a hole family with three children on just one motorcycle. As safe as this sounds, so are the taxis. I can not remember that i ever had a seat belt when i was driving a taxi. So better keep your eyes open.
Food: Morocco has plenty new dishes we did not know before. Their dishes are influenced by the Berber, French, Jewish and Arab culture. The most famous dish of Morocco is the so called “Tajine”. We had Tajine multiple times and in many different ways. The Tajine gets prepared in a clay cooking pot where different types of meat and vegetables are slow cooked inside.
The second traditional and well-known dish is Couscous. It is originally from Morocco and you can get it in every restaurant. Another typical meal is the “Pastilla”. Like the Tajine the Pastilla can be made with different ingredients. For those who like a mix of sweet and salty you should try the Chicken Pastilla. But for those who would prefer a hearty meal you should try the Seafood Pastilla. Of course, there are also numerous pastries and curious specialties such as snails soup but the dishes above you definitely have to try.